Celebrate May Day on Chestnut Street

April 11, 2012 - PRLog -- The renowned historian Samuel Eliot Morrison deemed Chestnut Street in Salem Ma., “The finest street architecturally in New England”. The well known author, Samuel Chamberlain wrote, “In the opinion of many qualified critics, Chestnut Street in Salem is the finest, best preserved and most aristocratic thorough-fare in America”.

On Saturday, May 5, 2012, ten homeowners on this street will open their homes to the public from Noon to 4PM. Each homeowner or their designee will give a short history and share little known stories and traditions.

At 4PM, afternoon tea will be served in the magnificent ballroom at Hamilton Hall at 9 Chestnut Street. It will be a traditional tea with both sweet and savory treats elegantly prepared and served. It will be an opportunity for people to visit this beautiful 1805 building designed by Salem’s most famous architect, Samuel McIntire.

This event is taking place in support of Hamilton Hall. Fundraising has always been a tradition on Chestnut Street. Periodically over the years, the residents on the street would hold a “Chestnut Street Day”. For example, in 1947 it was held to “preserve and restore the hall”. On Wednesday, June 25, 1952 from 10 to 5PM, houses on the street were open, homeowners were dressed in historic attire, and there was dancing and much merry making. The cost was $4.50 per persons

The cost is a little more this time! However, it is all for a good cause as it will assure the continued upkeep of this gem that is Hamilton Hall. A ticket to visit the houses is $25.00. A ticket to visit the houses and for tea is $45.00. Reservations required. Space is limited for Tea. To purchase tickets please go online to: info@hamiltonhall.org or send check payable to Hamilton Hall Inc. and mail to Hamilton Hall, 9 Chestnut Street, Salem, Massachusetts 01970. Or for further information, contact Hamilton Hall: 978.744.0805

No Tickets will be mailed. Tickets may be picked up at Hamilton Hall on the day of the event beginning at 11:30AM. Tickets are transferable but not refundable. The tour and tea are not handicap accessible.

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Historic New England owns and operates two historic house museums in Salem, MA. The Phillips House is located on 34 Chestnut Street and was built in 1821. The Gedney House is located on 21 High Street and was built in 1665.